The Steelers drafted outside linebacker Bud Dupree out of the University of Kentucky with their first round pick. Dupree is going to fit very nicely into the Steelers 3-4 defense.

Pittsburgh needed some type of pass rusher, a place they struggled at this past season. The Steelers were ranked 26th in the league in sacks, and posted it’s lowest total since the 1983 season.

Dupree had an impressive college career, starting for three years, and playing in all twelve games as a freshman. He was a captain this past year as a senior making 7.5 sacks, 74 tackles, and 12.5 tackles for loss.

Dupree will look to battle for a starting position right away. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told reporters that they are going to start Dupree on the left side of the defense where Arthur Moats is currently number one on the depth chart.

For the Steelers, this pick was easy. GM Kevin Colbert had this to say to the Post Gazette: “As the numbers came together, he was certainly the highest player left on our board. As he kept coming to us, the odds of getting a player increased, and we waited it out. So often it happens, you just wait it out.”

Colbert had great praise for the young linebacker.

“He’s very, very strong at the point,’’ Colbert said of his ability against the run. “When you watch him work out as we did on his pro day. You have to keep telling yourself this guy is 6-4, 269. He can power rush, he can speed rush, he can put moves together… and he can cover. He’s very humble, not a real talkative guy. He’s finishing school this semester and will graduate in four years.”

“When we were there for the pro day, there was just endless support and praise for this kid. He was their leader… We believe we got an impact player in Bud Dupree.’’

Coach Mike Tomlin had positive things to say about Dupree as a player too.

“Versatility is something you can highlight,’’ he said. “He’s done a lot for that defense over the course of the last four years.’’

Dupree was happy about becoming a Pittsburgh Steeler.

“I think it’s a great fit for me,’’ he said. “It will be great to have all of us on the field.”